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Kent Police confirm death after petrol bomb attack on Dover immigration centre

Police have confirmed the man who launched explosives at an immigration centre was found dead nearby along with another unexploded device.

The emergency services were called at 11.22am to a Home Office premises at The Viaduct in Dover.

Police examine the car at the petrol station
Police examine the car at the petrol station

Witnesses described seeing a man in a striped top throw petrol bombs from a white SEAT sports utility vehicle.

He is said to have hanged himself moments later, with police arriving at the scene almost immediately.

Police were initially unable to confirm the death, but a spokesman said this evening: "Officers established that two to three incendiary devices had been thrown outside and into the premises by a single suspect who arrived at the scene in a car.

Army bomb disposal vehicle at the Limekiln petrol station
Army bomb disposal vehicle at the Limekiln petrol station

"Two people have reported minor injuries from inside the property.

"The suspect was identified, and very quickly located at a nearby petrol station, and confirmed deceased.

"The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit attended the location to ensure there were no further threats.

Firefighters at the scene of the petrol bomb attack Photo: Sam Lennon
Firefighters at the scene of the petrol bomb attack Photo: Sam Lennon

"A further device was found and confirmed safe within the suspect’s vehicle.

"The site remained open, however around 700 suspected migrants were relocated to Manston to ensure safety during the initial phase of the police investigation.

"Enquiries into the incident remain ongoing by Kent detectives."

Police say the incident is not currently being treated as a terror attack.

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